sepelvaltimotarkastus

Sepelvaltimotarkastus, often referred to as a coronary artery screening, is a medical examination designed to assess the health of the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. The primary goal of such a check-up is to identify any blockages or narrowing (stenosis) within these arteries that could lead to coronary artery disease.

There are several methods used for sepelvaltimotarkastus. One common technique is coronary angiography, which involves injecting a contrast dye into the coronary arteries and then using X-rays to visualize blood flow. This provides detailed images of any obstructions. Another non-invasive approach is a coronary CT angiography (CCTA), which uses CT scans to create cross-sectional images of the heart and arteries. Stress tests, like exercise electrocardiography or pharmacological stress tests, can also be part of the assessment, evaluating how the heart functions under exertion.

The decision to undergo a sepelvaltimotarkastus is typically based on individual risk factors. These include a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and advancing age. Symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or a history of heart attack may also prompt a doctor to recommend this examination. Early detection through sepelvaltimotarkastus allows for timely intervention, which can include lifestyle changes, medication, or procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery, to reduce the risk of future cardiac events.